膝を交える

• Reading: ひざをまじえる
• Romaji: hiza o majieru
• Kanji breakdown: 膝 (shitsu/hiza) — knee; 交 (kō/ma) — mix, exchange, intersect
• Pronunciation: /hi.za o ma.dʑi.e.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To sit together closely; to have a frank, intimate conversation; to consult face-to-face with full attention.

An idiomatic expression using the Group 2 (ichidan) verb 交える (majieru, to intermix/have exchanges). Literally means 'to have knees touching' — evoking the closeness of two people sitting cross-legged and facing each other directly. Used for important, intimate discussions where full attention and candour are expected. Common in diplomatic, business, and counselling contexts.

Examples

1. 両国の首脳が膝を交えて、将来の関係について率直に話し合った。 The leaders of both countries sat down together and spoke frankly about the future of their relationship.
2. 部下の悩みを聞くために、上司は膝を交えて面談の時間を設けた。 To listen to his subordinate's concerns, the manager arranged a face-to-face meeting.
3. こういう大切な問題は、膝を交えて直接話し合うべきだと思う。 I think important matters like this should be discussed in person, sitting down together.

Usage Guide

Context: diplomacy, business, counselling, serious discussion

Tone: respectful

Origin & History

From the image of two people sitting so closely that their knees nearly touch — a traditional Japanese posture of engaged, respectful conversation. The expression reflects the cultural value placed on direct, face-to-face dialogue for serious matters.

Cultural Context

Era: Traditional–Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Professional